China launches experimental satellite

An experimental orbiter in China's Shi-Jian satellite series, SJ-11-03, boosted by a Long-March II-C rocket carrier, lifts off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China's Gansu Province, July 6, 2011. The satellite will be used for experiments of space science and technology. (Xinhua/Li Wen)

JIUQUAN, Gansu, July 6 (Xinhua) -- China on Wednesday launched an experimental orbiter in the country's Shijian satellite series from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwestern Gansu Province.

The satellite, SJ-11-03, was sent to space at 12:28 a.m. (Beijing time) by a Long March II-C carrier rocket, according to the launch center.

The orbiter, developed by China Spacesat Co. Ltd under China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, will be used to conduct space scientific experiments, the company said.